If you've been experiencing low libido, you are not alone. Erectiledysfunction affects 30 million American men and one-third of Americanmales between the ages of 40 and 70. According to a 1999 report in theJournal of the American Medical Association, 43% of women reportedhaving some kind of sexual dissatisfaction; about one-third of themspecifically reported low sexual desire. Here are two important tipsfor boosting your libido:

1) Eat well – Adding healthy foods to your menu can have powerfulbenefits on your libido. A healthy diet full of nutrients andantioxidants also has many other health benefits.

2) Exercise regularly - Exercise improves energy and circulation, andhelps you feel good about yourself! And when you feel good aboutyourself, you feel sexy.

You're probably thinking, "Can diet and exercise really affect mylibido?" Yes they can. Nutrition plays a role in desire and exercisecan come into play when it comes to energy levels. Eating a largeplate of pasta for dinner won't make you feel sexy, but will morelikely put you to sleep. Balance your meals with energy-producingproteins and fresh fruits and vegetables. Adding healthy foods to yourdiet could help increase your sex-drive, especially those foods thatare considered aphrodisiacs, like almonds, avocadoes, chili peppers,oysters, figs, nutmeg, asparagus, and chocolate. Oysters get theirlove-inducing reputation because they contain antioxidants and traceelements like zinc, essential for good sexual functioning. Exerciseimproves energy and circulation, and helps you feel good aboutyourself. Anything that improves self-esteem will improve libido.Moderate regular exercise also improves blood flow to the sexualorgans and helps prevent certain chronic diseases.

Other tips to improve your libido:• Get enough sleep – If you've been missing out on sleep, your bodyonly wants one thing once it comes in contact with those comfortablesheets!• Manage your stress – If you're stressed and tired, you're lesslikely to be "in the mood". Use different stress management techniquesto improve your overall health.• Communicate with your partner – Perhaps the most important thing todo. Enjoy the time you spend together as a couple and relax…• Drink in moderation - One drink may help you feel more at ease, butbeware because alcohol is a depressant.

Certain medical conditions could also be causing a decrease in libido,so it could be important to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. Any condition that interferes with hormone production,mood, or energy levels can have an effect on libido. Whether it isdiabetes, certain heart conditions, depression or menopause, yournaturopathic doctor can help you address them! Libido is much morethan sexual desire – a balanced lifestyle can help you perform in manyareas of your life!